King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, the traditional ruler of the Tooro kingdom in western Uganda, has died at the age of 34, his prime minister announced. He was recognized as the world's youngest reigning monarch.

King Oyo ascended the throne in 1995 at just three years old, following the death of his father. He was officially crowned in 2010 upon reaching adulthood at 18. The Tooro kingdom did not disclose the cause of death, but a Ugandan government minister was quoted in local media saying he had been critically ill and was seeking treatment in the US.

The Tooro kingdom, founded in the early 19th century, has over two million subjects. Oyo was the 13th monarch of the dynasty. Guinness World Records listed him as the world's youngest reigning monarch.

Tooro's Prime Minister Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki called his passing on Thursday an "immeasurable loss" to the royal family and the people of Tooro. "I call upon all the people of Tooro to remain united, calm and prayerful during this profoundly difficult time," Akiiki said on Friday. "May His Majesty the King rest in eternal peace."

The Tooro Kingdom follows a hereditary system in selecting its monarch. Oyo was not officially married, but Akiiki said "the continuity of the Crown is assured." "His Majesty leaves behind a Prince as his heir, whose identity will be formally revealed at the appropriate time, in accordance with the traditions and customs of Tooro Kingdom," he explained.

The young king was well respected by his people and promoted causes such as youth empowerment, education, climate conservation, and HIV/Aids awareness, according to the Daily Monitor newspaper. The country's largest traditional institution, the Buganda Kingdom, said it mourned with the people of Tooro, labelling him a valuable figure to Uganda.

Source: www.bbc.co.uk